Issuu

THE MALLEE’S FARMING NEWSPAPER JANUARY 2026 Collection for sale Page 3

VFF responds Page 4

Calls flow Page 8

Gordon Mills, from Horsham, and Dave Williams, from Nhill, harvest a wheat crop. Picture: Kerry McFarlane

OLD IRON, NEW SPARK Quambatook’s paddocks will come alive this Australia Day weekend as the Quambatook Heritage Working Machinery Association hosts its annual Harvest Working Days and Vintage Tractor Pull on 24–25 January. Enthusiasts will witness tractors, harvesters, and trucks from across the region brought back to life, including rare machines like a Massey Ferguson 31 and a homemade 1960 “Harry’s Horse” tractor. Collectors of all ages, from seasoned veterans to young enthusiasts, will demonstrate historic farming equipment, culminating in a Saturday tractor pull. STORY - PAGE 2

Are you in need of a licensed surveyor? “With over 40 years in the business, have your project surveyed, designed, managed & completed on �me the ﬁrst �me!”

KERANG 9478 Murray Valley Hwy, Kerang Phone: 5452 2490 pmc@pricemerre�.com.au

MILDURA 137 Lime Avenue, Mildura Phone: 5023 6239 pmc.mildura@pricemerre�.com.au www.pricemerre�.com.au

SWAN HILL 69 Beveridge Street, Swan Hill Phone: 5032 3685 pmash@pricemerre�.com.au

SURVEYING ENGINEERING IRRIGATION PROJECT MANAGEMENT LAND DEVELOPMENT NN1126352

12794028-MA37-25

Our team can help you from subdivisions and easements to aerial surveying and mapping across Victoria and NSW.

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

2 | January 2026

Old iron, new spark to fire up HISTORY will be rolling, rattling and roaring into action on the Australia Day long weekend when Quambatook’s paddocks turn back the clock and put vintage muscle back to work.

Peter Bannan THE Quambatook Heritage Working Machinery Association will again stage its Harvest Working Days and Vintage Tractor Pull across 24-25 January, bringing together old iron, skilled hands and a growing crowd of enthusiasts who like their history hands-on. Club members have been busy preparing machinery from an extensive collection of tractors, harvesters and trucks, while also welcoming collectors from across the region to bring their own machines and put them to work. “We demonstrate our own machines, but a big part of the weekend is inviting others to bring harvesters to work or enter tractors in the vintage tractor pull,” association president Doug Carroll said. And despite the stereotype, not all machinery collectors are old men. A new generation is stepping into the paddock, including 28-year-old Rochester collector Hugh Macague, who said his interest started early. “I’ve been mucking around with tractors since I

George Holmberg with a John Deere 4010 that has returned to his family after purchasing it in 1963. Picture: Supplied

was 16,” Mr Macague said. His collection includes an early Sunshine Auto Header, Sunshine HST, Horwood Bagshaw OH, David Shearer XP88, IH A83 self-propelled and a particularly unusual machine he plans to bring this year, a Massey Ferguson 31. “It’s a small German built machine, only about 1.7 metres wide with three straw walkers,” Mr Macague said. Mr Macague will also demonstrate a homemade tractor with a remarkable back story. Built in 1960 by two brothers from Forbes, New South Wales, the tractor was created when they needed more power than commercial models could offer. At the time, the army was selling surplus General Grant tanks, each powered by twin GM diesel engines. “The brothers bought the drivetrains and built tractors out of them,” Mr Macague said. “I’ve got the original one, and I call it Harry’s Horse.” Another strong supporter of the event is Nanneella collector Vaughan Glass, whose shed is

Quambatook Heritage Working Machinery Association members John Donnan operating a stripper pulled by a tractor driven by Ian Fisher. Pictures: Kerry McFarlane

dominated by John Deeres including models 3020, 4020, 4620, 4230, 4430 and 4240, along with a rare Case 400 Hyclear diesel. “Only 67 diesel and 58 petrol versions of that Case were made,” Mr Glass said. Mr Glass will also bring a story that recently came full circle, after he tracked down and returned a John Deere 4010 tractor to the family who bought it new in 1963. The tractor was originally purchased by George Holmberg from Grogans in Elmore, later traded, and eventually ended up on a farm in New South Wales. Years later, Mr Glass spotted it for sale and added it to his collection. “When I opened the owner’s manual at home, there was the name George Holmberg,” he said. “I knew straight away it had to go back.” Now 97, Mr Holmberg was thrilled to see his old tractor return to Elmore. Last year’s Quambatook event attracted what Mr Carroll described as exceptional patronage, with more than 700 people attending across the two days.

“People come for the nostalgia, and some of the younger generation like to see how machinery was used by farming pioneers,” he said. Vintage tractors travelled from as far as Nhill, Deniliquin and Finley, while the harvesting demonstration on Saturday proved a major drawcard. About 70 people stayed on for the fully catered roast dinner after the tractor pull, rounding out what Mr Carroll said was a huge team effort by club members in the lead up. Funds raised were put straight back into the community and the collection, including the purchase of a defibrillator to be shared with other clubs. This year’s event will feature working demonstrations of strippers, harvesters and headers on both days, with the tractor pull scheduled for about 3pm on Saturday. Gates open at 10am, and catering will be available throughout the weekend, including the Saturday night roast meal. For more information, contact Doug on 0427 346 634 or Graeme on 0429 346 110.

Long-time member John Donnan feeds the grain in for cleaning, while the two men on the other side turn a handle which makes the machine work to separate the grain and straw.

IN STOCK AND READY TO TAKE HOME

35,990

RIDE AWAY

$797 per month 11.52% P.A. COMPARISON RATE OVER 60 MONTHS TERM

29,990

RIDE AWAY

$666 per month 11.52% P.A. COMPARISON RATE OVER 60 MONTHS TERM

23,990

RIDE AWAY

$536 per month 11.52% P.A. COMPARISON RATE OVER 60 MONTHS TERM

23,990

RIDE AWAY

$536 per month 11.52% P.A. COMPARISON RATE OVER 60 MONTHS TERM

12827741-MA03-26

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

January 2026 | 3

Collection under the hammer Sam James AN eclectic curation of vintage and antique Australian pastoral machinery and memorabilia will go to auction on 1 February. Yvon Smythe and her late partner, Neil O’Callaghan, began the Manangatang Mallee Country Pickings museum collection with shearing plants and wool presses going in clearing sales during the droughts in 2006, as farmers sold up and moved on. “A lot of the old machinery that was used has just disappeared, and someone has to preserve what is left because even my children had never seen a wooden wool press and they’re almost 40,” Ms Smythe said. “If people aren’t brought up on a farm and they haven’t got them stored in the old sheds, kids don’t know how farming actually worked back in those days. “There was so much stuff just thrown out and sent to scrappies when people sold up, even really nice machines.” One of the oldest pieces in the collection is an old shearing plant on steel wheels that Neil bought near Horsham in 2006. “It was 102 years old then, and was running the day he was bidding on it,” Ms Smythe said. “It would still run but they gave him a magneto that starts the engine, but apparently that’s the first thing people put in their pocket, and he never told me where he put it. “I did a lot of searching to find what it looked like, but I couldn’t find it.” Now, Ms Smythe’s museum spans from genuine Koerstz wool presses and other farm equipment, to kitchen wares and household items from the era - everything that made Australia’s farming industry tick from the late 19th century. “When Neil passed away from cancer in 2009, I was still in the searching phase, and when I got the museum up and running I was still buying things at garage sales - I’ve always sort of collected things,” she said. “Everything was stored in sheds and barns at our farm in Ouyen, and when the farm got sold it

took a few years to then build a shed at my family farm in Manangatang and cart it all across. “My brother and a few really good mates from Ouyen helped me cart it all across, otherwise I would still be moving it. “My brother and I sorted it all and displayed it, we spent a lot of long hours and late nights and early mornings just setting the museum up, I quite often would still be in the shed at 2am sorting it all. “I should have stopped when I brought it over, but then I catered for anyone, whether it was the farmer or the farmer’s wife. “At clearing sales, you might have one thing in a box and a heap of other stuff, then you end up with spanners and horse shoes and rabbit traps, or kitchen stuff like mincers, kettles and bottles - I would always come home with bottles - and they just sat in the boxes. “I thought, I’ll display it instead of leaving it. “I’ve got antique sewing machines, washing machines, mix masters, kerosene lamps and lanterns, and more of the farm sort of stuff like spanners and motors.” When the museum finally opened in 2018, Ms Smythe said it was a hit for collectors, car clubs and social groups from Wycheproof, Nandaly, Culgoa, Nullawil, Swan Hill and beyond. “There was a lot of interest in a lot of the things I had there, and I loved listening to the oldies who came through saying ‘remember that’, and hearing the stories of some of the pieces,” she remembered. Now the museum is shuttered, the family farm is on the market and Ms Smythe has retired to a smaller house block in Mildura, she hopes collectors will find something among her two decades of curating. “They are all interesting pieces, I couldn’t pick just one thing to hold onto, I’ve got to pull the pin,” she said. Auctioneer Martin Evans encouraged any and all collectors to peruse the listing before the auction goes live on 1 February. The Manangatang collection can be viewed at the meauctions website.

Neil O’Callaghan started the collection in 2006 before he passed away from cancer in 2009.

BELOW LEFT: The historically significant Koerstz wool presses are the focal point of the collection.

BELOW: Along with heavyduty machinery, Yvon Smythe has collected the bits and bobs that made the shearing industry go around. Pictures: Supplied

Northern Wool is a locally owned wool business in Swan Hill and district associated with Endeavour Wool Export - a large Australian family-owned wool exporting business

Exporting to all major countries around the world

Tony Keam Wool Buyer 0427 993 041 E: tony-keam@bigpond.com

15 Shepherd Road, Swan Hill

12795049-CB37-25

3 Consignment for export 3 Price on result 3 Competitive auction rates 3 Prompt payment

4 | January 2026

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

Tragedy sparks concern

THE MALLEE’S FARMING NEWSPAPER JANUARY 2026 Collection for sale Page 3

VFF responds Page 4

Calls flow Page 8

Gordon Mills, from Horsham, and Dave Williams, from Nhill, harvest a wheat crop. Picture: Kerry McFarlane

Edmund Coleman

Are you in need of a licensed surveyor?

KERANG 9478 Murray Valley Hwy, Kerang Phone: 5452 2490 pmc@pricemerre�.com.au

MILDURA 137 Lime Avenue, Mildura Phone: 5023 6239 pmc.mildura@pricemerre�.com.au www.pricemerre�.com.au

SWAN HILL 69 Beveridge Street, Swan Hill Phone: 5032 3685 pmash@pricemerre�.com.au

SURVEYING ENGINEERING IRRIGATION PROJECT MANAGEMENT LAND DEVELOPMENT NN1126352

THE MALLEE’S FARMING NEWSPAPER PUBLISHED monthly in The Guardian (Swan Hill), Sunraysia Daily (Mildura) and Gannawarra Times (Kerang/Cohuna) ___

CLASSIFIEDS Phone: 1300 666 808 Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au ___

ADVERTISING Phone: 03 5032 2161 Email: advertising@northwestfarmer.com.au ___

EDITORIAL Phone: 03 5032 2161 Email: editorial@northwestfarmer.com.au

View Online www.northwestfarmer.com.au Published by SA Today Pty Ltd. ACN 644 311 937. All material is copyright to SA Today Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions, please visit theguardian.com.au/terms-and-conditions.

Brett Hosking has urged farmers to stay vigilant around machinery after the first workplace death in Victoria occurred on a farm. Picture: Supplied

VFF responds to help bushfire impacted farmers THE Victorian Farmers Federation is coordinating fodder relief for farmers affected by the devastating Victorian bushfires. There had been a huge response earlier this week, with more than 2000 hay bales donated and “climbing fast“. “Since launching on Monday, the VFF’s emergency fodder service has been flooded with donated hay,“ the VFF said on its Facebook page. “The first of those deliveries with arrive on farms to impacted farmers today (Tuesday).” VFF president Brett Hosking said work is underway to get fodder to livestock immediately and over the preceding weeks. “It is very difficult to access much of the bushfire zone at the moment, but the VFF is working with other agencies such as Agriculture Victoria, the Victorian Government, local government authorities and organisations such to get fodder to where it is needed,” he said. “I’ve seen some of the scenes in central Victoria and the level of devastation is horrible. “Our number one priority is to get emergency fodder as soon as possible to fire impacted farms.“ Impacted farmers seeking fodder and those wishing to donate fodder can register on the VFF website at www.vff.org.au/vff-emergency-fodder-program/ or the VFF call 1300 882 833. Farmers can also request and offer agistment via the VFF website. Mr Hosking said it was important that farmers and landowners with fodder to donate to contact the VFF as soon as possible. “Anyone with good quality fodder to donate should contact the VFF on 1300 882 833 or visit our website to

JAYCAR Past stockist of the year P

VFF president Brett Hosking said work is underway to get fodder to livestock immediately and over the preceding weeks.

register,” he said. “We’re asking farmers impacted by these fires to seek help by contacting the VFF as soon as possible,” Mr Hosking concluded. In addition, the VFF has also enacted its Disaster Relief Fund to provide immediate, farmer-led support

Syd Wilson

to producers impacted by the catastrophic bushfires burning across Victoria. Financial donations can be made via the VFF website. The VFF will continue monitoring the situation as it progresses with Agriculture Victoria, the Victorian Government and local government authorities.

Call 5032 2005 Fax: 5032 9668 111-113 Campbell Street, Swan Hill.

AUTO ELECTRICS

12827812-MA03-26

“With over 40 years in the business, have your project surveyed, designed, managed & completed on �me the ﬁrst �me!”

12794028-MA37-25

Our team can help you from subdivisions and easements to aerial surveying and mapping across Victoria and NSW.

A FARMER has become the first workplace fatality for 2026 after being entangled in a tractor wheel, prompting renewed calls for farmers to stay vigilant around machinery. The death comes amidst new data which revealed tractors have been the leading cause of both farming fatalities and injuries since 2020. It’s believed the 69-year-old man had exited the tractor to clear jammed hay from a baler trailer when the vehicle rolled forward. WorkSafe Victoria said the man was then stuck under the machine and dragged at a Kingston property south east of Melbourne. According to AgHealth Australia’s Rural Media Farm Injury Dashboard, there have been 13 fatalities and 12 injuries involving tractors since 2020, with four fatalities last year alone. The vast majority of deaths and injuries have involved the operator of the tractor, although a number of bystanders have also been killed or hurt. Victorian Farmer’s Federation president Brett Hosking said the latest tragedy should be a reminder to all farmers to look after themselves and their machinery. “We are still an overrepresented industry when it comes to workplace fatalities, and we need to do an

enormous amount more work from a machinery safety point of view and a cultural safety point of view,” he said. According to WorkSafe Victoria, agriculture makes up just two per cent of the state’s workforce, but accounts for 14 per cent of workplace deaths. Victoria itself is also overrepresented in farming fatality statistics. Last year there were 15 farming fatalities across Victoria, accounting for around 30 per cent of all farm related deaths nationally, according to the AgHealth dashboard. The 2025 death toll was down on the year previous with 18 deaths in 2024, but both remain well above the five-year average. Mr Hosking, who farms in Quambatook, reminded farmers that free safety consultations and site reviews are able to be made through the VFF’s Making Our Farms Safer program. “It can be really useful to have a fresh set of eyes to look over the farm, and could pick up something farmers may not have noticed or forgotten about,” he said. “Technology changes, machines operate in dust - extreme heat and extreme cold - and don’t always operate as they used to. “You need to keep in mind they have the potential to fail, and caution always needs to be applied.”

January 2026 | 5

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

Speeding? Wrong choice.

The police will be using every tool they have to keep the roads safe. But if you decide to speed, how your holiday ends is your choice.

12809484-MR03-26

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

6 | January 2026

Crisis is under the microscope Peter Bannan A MAJOR new research push has been launched to investigate labour and skills shortages gripping key farming regions, with the Murray– Darling and Swan Hill firmly in the spotlight. AgriFutures Australia, working with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, has unveiled a national initiative aimed at tackling one of agriculture’s biggest headaches: finding and keeping workers in regional Australia. The project, titled Strategic Analysis of Regional Workforce Pressures in Australian Agriculture, will examine workforce challenges across five major agricultural regions, including Murray–Darling and Swan Hill. Researchers will collect data through surveys and in depth interviews before bringing government and industry leaders together to discuss the findings. The goal is simple but urgent. Build a clearer picture of what is driving labour shortages and skills gaps, and use that knowledge to strengthen Australia’s agricultural workforce. Murray–Darling and Swan Hill was chosen for a reason. The region has a strong agricultural identity, with a large share of locals employed in farming and food production. I t supports a wide range of commodities including horticulture, dairy, viticulture and broadacre cropping, creating year round demand for workers and intense seasonal pressure, particularly in horticulture. That mix of diverse farming, heavy seasonal labour needs and strong community reliance on agriculture makes the region a prime case study for understanding workforce stress points.

The project, titled Strategic Analysis of Regional Workforce Pressures in Australian Agriculture, will examine workforce challenges across five major agricultural regions, including Murray–Darling and Swan Hill.

AgriFutures Australia general manager of rural futures Simon Vincent said the project is built on listening to the people who live and work in these communities. “Every region has its own story, its own strengths and challenges,” Mr Vincent said. “Agriculture is at the heart of the Murray– Darling and Swan Hill communities, and the region’s diversity means workforce pressures are felt in many different ways. “We need local voices, from growers and dairy operators to vineyard managers, packhouse workers and seasonal staff, to help us understand the realities on the ground.” While agriculture is one of Australia’s most innovative industries, generating billions of dollars and offering a wide range of careers, ongoing labour shortages and uneven access to skills continue to strain regional production systems. “We want to make sure every part of the workforce ecosystem, from training providers to employers and councils is part of the study,” Mr Vincent said. Community members, workers, employers and organisations across Murray–Darling and Swan Hill are being urged to take part in surveys and consultation sessions. Surveys will remain open for six weeks, with a final report expected in mid 2026, shaping the future of Australia’s regional agricultural workforce. Complete the survey at voconiq.syd1. qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_emQYnYyk8RzyyqO.

Bushranger Drover UTV Top of the range multi terrain work vehicle with Winch, Windshields and Roof $26,799.00 26,799.00 (INC. GST)

Introducing the Bushranger Drover utility vehicle (UTV), a powerhouse of innovation and performance. Boasting a V-Twin Cylinder 83hp / 997cc petrol engine, it conquers slopes and reaches speeds up to 100kph with intelligent terrain-adaptive controls for exceptional traction and handling. Featuring Industrial Leading 4WD Turf Mode and switchable front and rear differentials (4WD / 2WD), it ensures versatility in any environment.

Dr Penny Roberts (front) is part of a team looking at new approaches to erosion risk assessment. Picture: Supplied

Mallee groundcover levels hit new low Edmund Coleman GROWERS in the Northern Mallee are facing some of the worst seasonal conditions on record, experts have warned, with many paddocks left “bare and vulnerable” due to “extremely poor” growing conditions for the past two years. Scarce rainfall since early 2024 has resulted in some of the lowest levels of ground cover on record, and increased the risk of wind erosion across sandy soils. Mallee Sustainable Farming research manager Dr Penny Roberts is part of a team looking at new approaches to erosion risk assessment and intervention. “The reality is, even with good management, if there is not enough rain to grow biomass, there’s little that can be done to establish a protective cover,” she said. “This has been a recurring challenge since early 2024, particularly when weather models had a high probability of a wetter-than-average season. Unfortunately, as can sometimes happen, the opposite has played out.” MSF is leading a new project utilising technology to track vegetation cover and provide early warnings to growers when conditions indicate high erosion risk. When groundcover falls below 70 per cent in spring, Dr Roberts said the risk threshold is met for wind erosion across the Mallee in the following season. “Early information on cover conditions before sowing gives growers the ability to adjust

cropping plans or grazing management before the risk becomes a reality,” she said. MSF will trial a range of practical interventions aimed to protect soil surfaces and stabilise vulnerable paddocks, working alongside the Grains Research and Development Corporation, the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, and DustWatch Australia. Director of DustWatch and leading Australian wind erosion expert, Dr John Leys, said the situation in the Mallee is dire. “The average total cover in the Victorian Millewa for July 2025 is around 55 per cent, comparable to the severe 2019 season,” he said. “The green cover is the lowest July on record and there are very few paddocks with any green growth and the South Australian Northern Mallee has similar challenges.” Research activities set to be undertaken include testing soil-binding agents to reduce sand drift risk, and investigating whether inter-row cover options and fast establishing species, as well as high seeding rates, could boost early groundcover. MSF will also assess paddock conditions in autumn to better inform early-season decisions on crop selection, establishment, or grazing. As research develops, local demonstrations and knowledge-sharing sessions will assist growers to stabilise vulnerable soils and make informed decisions as seasonal variability increases. Funding was made available to MSF through the Federal and South Australian Governments, along with the Grains Research and Development Corporation.

ADVERTISE IN THE CLASSIFIEDS UNTIL YOUR ITEM SELLS*

Inside, enjoy spacious legroom, a foldable passenger seat, sunroof, side and rear view mirrors, and a windscreen for comfort and convenience. Built tough with a large towing capacity and a 4500 lb winch with synthetic rope and overload protection, it’s ready for both leisure and demanding tasks. Enhanced by Tri-Mode Dynamic Electric Power Steering and a front bullbar for added utility and style, the Drover sets a new standard in UTVs, delivering power, precision, and reliability for every adventure and task.

$ 03 5456 4620 www.jakabmotors.com.au 9 Lyons Road Cohuna Vic 3568

ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00

.00

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication. • After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear. • The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item. • Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer. • The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

January 2026 | 7

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

Breezair are the world’s healthiest, coolest and most energy-efficient evaporative air-conditioners ever! National Heating and Cooling gives you

$300 OFF YOUR NEW BREEZAIR Contact National Heating and Cooling and upgrade NOW! nationalhc.com.au Bendigo - Geelong - Wodonga 6 Schoder Street, Strathdale, VIC, 3550 T: (03) 5443 6333

12805651-CB41-25

when you trade in your old evaporative cooler!

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

8 | January 2026

Calls flow for royal commission Peter Bannan AUSTRALIA needs a royal commission into water management in 2026, according to Murray MP Helen Dalton, who says politicians are “destroying“ the nation’s waterways and communities. Ms Dalton urged every MP in Australia to back her demand for a royal commission into the management of water across the country. “Without water, we have no Australia,” Ms Dalton said. She accused political leaders at all levels of causing the crisis. “Politics, and politicians, continues to destroy our waterways, our rural communities and our way of life,” Ms Dalton said. “Politicians are causing this problem. Only an independent royal commission will fix it.” Ms Dalton warned that any politician who resists scrutiny should be called out by voters. “And if any politician opposes a royal commission into water, voters need to know, that politics is part of the problem and not part of the solution.” She pointed to the mismanagement of the

Murray-Darling Basin and the ongoing decline of the Coorong as proof that Australia’s water system was broken. “Imagine there are 1000 cars outside a petrol station, waiting to fill up, and the owner is standing there pouring all the petrol down the drain,” Ms Dalton said. “That’s what State and Federal Governments are doing with our water.” She described the situation as “absolute madness” and said it must stop immediately. Ms Dalton also hit back at claims a royal commission would be too expensive. “Australian communities lose billions of dollars, every year, because our water is grossly mismanaged,” she said. “An efficient, independent royal commission will stop this appalling waste, once and for all.”

Member for Murray Helen Dalton. Picture: Ben Gross

Prepare growers for participation GRAIN growers seeking to build leadership skills and play a greater role in industry decision making are being encouraged to apply for GrainGrowers’ OnBoard program, a professional development initiative that has been running since 2021. The program is designed to prepare growers for participation on industry boards and committees, with applications now open through the GrainGrowers website. Registrations of interest close on Monday, 19 January. OnBoard is fully funded by GrainGrowers and

combines technical and interpersonal skills training delivered by experienced facilitators. Participants also receive formal governance training through the Australian Institute of Company Directors. As part of the program, growers can complete either the Company Directors Course or the Governance Foundations for Not for Profit Directors Course, providing nationally recognised credentials and practical knowledge of board responsibilities. South Australian participants from the 2025

intake, Hannah Dabinett and Ruth Sommerville, said the program offered a strong grounding in governance and the role of directors. Ms Dabinett said the experience helped demystify board processes and encouraged participants to step forward. “The program was a great way to prepare for anyone wanting to become a director or get involved in industry bodies,” she said. “It gave me the confidence to step into board work with a clearer understanding of the contribution I could make.”

Ms Sommerville also encouraged interested growers to apply and to reach out with any questions about the program. “The program delivers a strong network of other AICD course participants and creates a much better understanding of governance and board management structures and processes,” she said. More information about the OnBoard program and application details are available at www. graingrowers.com.au/events/onboard-a-growerdirector-program.

ROLLER MILLS

Vertical Feed-mixers Exceptional performance. Reliability & Value.

12”, 24”, 36” & 48” Models Dry and High Moisture Rolling Folding Discharge Auger PTO or Electric motor drive 10 to 40 cubic metre models. Side Door with elevator or Front Door feed-out. Single or Twin Augers. Large carbide-insert knives for efficient cutting. Quick and effective mixing, complete and rapid emptying of the hopper.

RENN Roller Mills save time and money year after year by rolling more grain per hour with less horsepower with precision-machined 16” diameter rolls

DEGELMAN BIO SPREADERS Heavy duty design, reinforced beaters with patented reversable and replaceable teeth, consistent spreading pattern. Versatile, with detachable beaters, allowing use as a trailer. All-purpose Fertilizer Spreaders

EASTERN SPREADERS PTY LTD 9508 Murray Valley Highway, KERANG, Vic 3579

Ph: 03 5450 3077

easternspreaders.com.au

Mobile:

0409 691 226 0429 480 337

12812948-CB50-25

2.5 to 16 Tonne Models. PTO or Hydraulic models. Range of options including 3 metre track, i4M Variable Rate Control, Weighing Systems

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

January 2026 | 9

12813693-MR03-26

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

10 | January 2026

Cracking open future leaders

By Almonds Australia chief executive Tim Jackson THE almond industry’s leadership program has kicked off for 2026, with 12 participants meeting in Mildura earlier this month (13-15 January). This is the second year of the Growing Almond Leaders Program. The course is designed to cultivate personal development while also provide a broad understanding of all aspects of the industry supply chain. It includes tours of the various processing facilities as well as farm visits and presentations from industry stakeholders on a wide range of subjects. The 2026 intake includes representatives from three states and all of the major almond growing regions: Anna Eadie (Almond Board of Australia), Molly Feeney (Southern Cross Farms), Stuart Hastie (Australian Farming Services), Daniel Horn (Select Harvests), Peter Jealous (Almond Board of Australia), Sean Leesue (Almondco), Samir Mcwan (Olam Food Ingredients), Jarryd Petch (Aroona Farms), Bala Vara (Australian Farming Services), Alex Voutier (Australian Farming Services), Abby White (White Blossom Consulting) and Eryn Wrigley (Yenda Producers). There are many opportunities for people to have leadership roles in our industry, so it’s

The participants in the 2026 Growing Almond Leaders program.

critical that future generations are supported and encouraged to take on these positions. The ABA board is the peak industry body made up of eight grower and four marketing directors, plus an independent chair. There are also several industry subcommittees that meet regularly to discuss market development, processing, production, plant improvement, pollination, water, chemicals and the Almond Centre of Excellence. Australia’s almond orchards, processors and marketers also need employees who are passionate about our industry and want to see it thrive into the future. Throughout the supply chain we need great leaders who inspire others, who are motivated to address challenges and seize opportunities as they arise. The Growing Almond Leaders Program is funded via Hort Innovation using grower levies and contributions from the Federal Government.

Jeanette Gellard, from Innovative Influences; Susie Green, from Susie Green Consulting and Kellie Hollingworth, from the Almond Board of Australia, are delivering the program. During the three days in Mildura, the participants enthusiastically participated in a range of activities, including group discussions and site visits. The leadership program will continue with online and in person session in the coming months. In the coming months, each participant will be matched with a mentor who will provide valuable insights and guidance. The 2026 Growing Almond Leaders Program will end in October, with a graduation ceremony at the Australian Almond Conference. The leaders will also present posters at the conference, exploring industry opportunities or threats. I look forward to seeing what topics the group identify as part of this program.

China driving Aussie almond demand DEMAND for Australian almonds remains strong despite easing from last season’s record highs, according to the Almond Board of Australia. The industry’s October sales position report, released in December, shows sales have trailed last year’s exceptional pace but are still on track to be the second largest on record, even with a smaller crop. The Almond Board of Australia said the result underlined the resilience of global demand for Australian product. China continues to dominate export activity, recording another strong month that was two per cent higher than the same period last year. Season to date shipments to China are now running four per cent ahead of last season’s record volume and account for 60 per cent of Australia’s almond exports for the 2025–26 season. “For the second consecutive season we are seeing inshell exports outstrip traditional kernel sales in the export market,” the Almond Board of Australia said, pointing to changing buyer preferences and strong demand from key Asian markets. Pricing has remained firm, with confidence further supported by outcomes from the recent Californian Almond Conference. The Almond Board of Australia said discussions at the conference reinforced that the global supply and demand balance for almonds remains favourable for growers. In July, global almond prices fell sharply following the release of the independently calculated Objective Estimate for the Californian crop, which forecast a three billion pound harvest for the 2025–26 season. The estimate surprised most analysts, but subsequent receipts suggest the figure may be around 300 million pounds higher than the actual intake. Last week, the Almond Board of California announced it would no longer finance the annual objective estimate, a move the Almond Board of Australia said would be closely watched by global markets given the estimate’s historic influence on pricing and sentiment.

Flavours of Loddon will be Popping Up across the Loddon Shire over summer Next Event:

Nolens Park – Little Lake Boort Saturday, 24 Jan 2026 5:00pm – 8:00pm Savour the Flavour of our region @flavoursofloddon For updates For enquiries flavoursofloddon@gmail.com

Flavours of Loddon is supported by Visit Loddon Valley

12834870-MR03-26

January 2026 | 11

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

LIVESTOCK REPORT

with Matt Rowlands

Market holds steady into the new year LIVESTOCK markets have opened in the new year to firm prices and positive opportunities for sheep, lamb and cattle producers. Elders Swan Hill livestock agent Matt Rowlands said that while high availability of lambs slid prices back a little since Christmas, producers will have options going into autumn. “Most sheep and lamb markets opened back up firm to slightly cheaper across most weights and grades, mutton probably held on the best compared to lambs,” he said. “We’re seeing heavy lambs and heavy trade lambs slip back into that mid to low $10/kg price bracket, which is obviously very good but just come away from those $11 to $11.50/kg contracts at the close of Christmas. “Weight cover is what the demand is, so it’s important that if you’re looking to sell lamb over the next couple of months that they’re well finished and well covered so they suit the buyers with the most competition for them.” As the season outlook develops, producers will have options to sell in very competitive markets. “The mutton market is very strong, looking at $7.50 to $8.20/kg, which is setting up a good floor price for scanned in lamb ewes,” Mr Rowlands said. “If producers think the dry season is going to persist or if feed is becoming a bit shorter that gives them the opportunity to lighten stock off for good returns.” Mr Rowland said that since the cattle market opened, weaner sales have exceeded some expectations. “Quite a lot of cattle have come through in the last three weeks to the eastern and southern weaner sales, and they presented very strong pricing for both feeder weight steers and heifers, as well as those backgrounded cattle that are at the 350kg mark,” he said. “Prime cattle have opened back up really firm on where we left it before Christmas, and the cow market is still very strong, ranging from $3.70 to $4/kg which is fantastic. “It’s a solid market which is allowing producers to have options to offload stock if feed is getting tight or they are looking at making management decisions.”

A steady cattle market gives producers options into the new year. Angus heifers are trading at or only just above the cow counter price, presenting a good opportunity in the cattle market. “It’s a good upside there for weight gain or to tuck some of those smaller, lighter weight black heifers away for backgrounding into the winter or spring this year,” Mr Rowlands said. Elders Swan Hill have put a call out to producers who have hay or fodder to spare for farmers affected by bushfires at the weekend. “I was down toward Harcourt on Monday helping a client with some cattle who was, luckily enough, not affected by the fire, though it got very close to his property,” Mr Rowlands said. “Devastating’ is probably the best way to describe it, you really feel for the people down

there. “There’s no ground cover left whatsoever where the fire has been, so they are going to need a fair bit of help, it’s going to take a long time to clean up and get through everything. “It’s a great industry and community that we all work in, so if anyone can help in any way and they’re wondering how to send stuff in that direction, they can contact us and we can join the dots for them.” Mr Rowlands said he looked forward to getting back into the market and catching up with everyone at the first sheep sale back for the year at the Swan Hill Livestock Exchange on Thursday 29 January.

COMING 2026 Proven Performance Collective is proud to present

PPC Merino Wether Trail in 2026 Keep and eye out for more information in the new year about how you can be part of what will set your livestock up to achieve better sale results

@ Proven Performance Collective

For more information get in touch with PPC online

128273040-MA03-26

Are you a passionate Merino Breeder? Are you looking for more feedback on your livestock production? Want to be part of the next chapter in the Merino industry?

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

12 | January 2026

Milking and mayhem DAIRY with PAUL BETHUNE ARE you bursting into the New Year firing on all cylinders? I think I might be stuck in first gear and in need of an injector clean. Sometimes, when I think I’m plodding, it’s worth thinking of the joys and challenges of the year gone by. It is never trivial, and that always cheers me up — for at least 30 seconds.

Harvest is all done except for a few paddocks of pasture seed. The short summary: the wheat and barley went pretty well, around the 7 to 7.5 ton/ ha range; the canola seed went just a tick under budget; the faba beans (I was an idiot for putting them in, and there is a reason some farmers call them “failure beans”) — the yield was low, and they got downgraded for quality (it was all our fault — not the beans). The vetch we grew was our biggest win; having a newer variety that went over six tonnes/ha helps that crop’s economics into the future. The three days of 45 degrees were tough on the cows and the people last week. They were under the sprinklers by 10.30am. We tipped out about 8000 litres one night due to a milk cooling failure. With what’s going on around the state with the fires, my inconvenience is minor.

I said to my bank manager just before Christmas, as we were wrapping up the finances for the milk factory expansion, that I had no major projects planned for the next six months. He said, “Can I have that in writing?” In the past 12 months, we have renovated a longabandoned farmhouse, built temporary worker accommodation for up to six employees, increased product sales by 25 per cent, completed 10km of boundary fencing, installed an unlimited amount of internal electric fencing, built dedicated grain bagging areas in multiple locations, cleared boxthorns and rubbish off 20km of levee banks, and brought new land into productive capacity. Sally has probably given 25 different school groups tours of the farm and factory. I bought a shiny, ugly American ute that Sally is disgusted with. I’m certain that’s not half of what we did, but we also milked and fed 1,000 cows twice a day,

every day. The major project has been sourcing processing equipment and doubling the size — and probably quadrupling the output potential — of the factory. It’s time to make a push for sales into the market now. I am a terrible salesman. I think this is sometimes to my advantage, as potential customers can see straight through my lack of polish and sales pitch and recognize that I am indeed a typical Australian farmer. It’s nice to talk to farmers instead of just salespeople all day long. The list of joys and challenges goes on, but really, the only project worth mentioning this week is the twins’ 11th birthday. They were having a discussion on whether they should buy each other a present, and it was amicably resolved that they would buy and wrap a packet of Tim Tams for each other.

Smoke exposure a risk WINE GRAPES with COLIN FREE HERE we go — another year has arrived with a chance to become wiser, less grumpy, and possibly lower my golf handicap. At 63, my golf swing is more akin to an old fart’s style swing, but I will keep trying. It was sad to see damage to some of the grapevines from the bushfires in the Nagambie

region. Sustained exposure to smoke is now a risk to other plantings in that and nearby wine regions. The smoke is taken into the berries through the skin, rendering them unusable. Some white varieties may be ok. The vines here are surviving the heat but are asking for heaps of water. The three days over 44 degrees last week cooked a few berries. They are now entering the ripening phase. The starlings are seeing the grapes as a much sweeter and tastier option than grubs, and are already targeting the early-ripening varieties. With the grapes still being pretty sour, plenty of starling-sized gut aches will result, assisting in time with the extra propulsion bursts required to beat the contents of the occasional shotgun blast.

I’m about to unhook the canopy sprayer and hook up the grape harvester. With most of our fruit still not having a home for this season, the option of harvesting the fruit to the ground as soon as it is mature enough to do so is being seriously considered. With the high cost of temporary water, any water that is saved is an advantage. On a lighter note, the fruit flies are not enjoying the dry heat and much prefer the humid weather. I did, last week, see an empty package lying under the garden sprinkler, labelled, “ACME, strap-on sponge vests, contents 100,000. Size (fruit fly).” Talk to your mates. Pinot Grigio grapes. Picture: Supplied

AGRONOMY AND TECHNICAL SERVICES • Soil testing and analysis

• Fertiliser strategies

• Crop rotation and seed recommendations

• Pest and insect management

Quality. Reliable. Effective.

SWAN HILL CHEMICALS Nyah Road, Swan Hill | Phone (03) 5032 9255 | Fax (03) 5032 9525 | Website www.shc.com.au

12794032-CB37-25

• Crop monitoring

• And much more all tailored to your farming enterprise

January 2026 | 13

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

WEATHER Mallee Forecast Mostly sunny

Sunny

Partly cloudy

Cloudy

Chance Shower Showers, Drizzle, Showers Rain shower or two storms chance rain

MILDURA Sat Sun Mon Tue

Fri

Windy

Warnings Information at www.bom.gov.au/vic/warnings or Ph: 1300 659 210 (local call cost)

15° 17° 19° 19° 19° 31° 33° 35° 36° 35°

Fri

Rain, storms

Fri

OUYEN Sat Sun Mon Tue

Dust

Mallee Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower in the southeast. Winds southerly 25 to 40 km/h. Saturday. Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower in the east. Winds southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.

Snow

Swan Hill

Victoria Showers on and south of the divide, becoming mostly confined to Gippsland in the evening. Isolated storms possibly about the northeast and East Gippsland. A mild day with maximum temperatures below average. East to southeasterly winds, fresh at times. Saturday. Showers on and south of the divide, becoming mostly confined to Gippsland in the afternoon. Isolated storms possibly about the north and East Gippsland. A mild day with maximum temperatures near to below average. East to southeasterly winds, fresh at times.

Sun protection recommended 9:20am - 5:40pm

Sat Sun Mon Tue

15° 16° 17° 18° 17° 32° 32° 33° 34° 33°

SWAN HILL

14° 15° 18° 19° 17° 32° 33° 35° 35° 33°

Fog

Fri

Sun and Moon

Sat Sun Mon Tue

KERANG Fri

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday

15° 16° 17° 18° 18° 31° 30° 31° 33° 32°

Sat Sun Mon Tue BIRCHIP

14° 14° 16° 18° 17° 30° 31° 33° 33° 32°

Edward River Edward River Murray River Murray River Murray River Murray River Murray River Murray River Murray River

AROUND AUSTRALIA

10am Saturday

DARWIN 32 1000 1001

1003

1002

1008

34 CAIRNS

BROOME 35

Moulamein 1.63 Liewah 2.08 Swan Hill 1.08 Wakool Junction 2.62 Boundary Bend 1.81 Euston Weir DS 1.14 Colignan 1.64 Mildura DS (AHD) 30.89 Wentworth 2.77

ALICE SPRINGS 40 1002

Water Storages

BRISBANE 32

Weekly Change

Last Year

Dartmouth 3,856,232 72.4 2,792,654 -27,165 Hume 3,005,157 34.1 1,026,074 -37,978 Eildon 3,334,158 52.4 1,747,033 -27,237 Others 1,421,545 57.5 817,422 -14,782 Total 11,617,092 54.9 6,383,183 -107,162

3,400,562 1,489,154 2,671,747 1,003,224 8,564,686

Capacity % Full 1002

1006

1008 1003

1003 1008

1016

1002

1016 1008

PERTH 33 ADELAIDE 27

1016

1016 1008 1025

1024

992

1000

Chances of exceeding median maximum temperature.

28 SYDNEY 26 CANBERRA

MELBOURNE 24

1024

1000

steady steady steady steady steady steady steady steady steady

River height in metres from 12pm Wed Jan 14

1000

1008

Sunset Moonrise Moonset 8:43pm 3:33am 7:03pm 8:43pm 4:26am 7:52pm 8:42pm 5:24am 8:35pm 8:42pm 6:26am 9:12pm 8:41pm 7:30am 9:44pm 8:41pm 8:34am 10:12pm

River Heights

w w w. b o m . g o v. a u Issued January 14, 2026

10am Friday

Sunrise 6:28am 6:29am 6:30am 6:31am 6:32am 6:33am

20 HOBART

1030

Chances of exceeding median rainfall.

Current

Storage data via Goulburn-Murry Water & MDBA from Wed Jan 14

Indian Ocean Dipole +2.0 +1.0 0.0 -1.0 I

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

Southern Oscillation Index +20 +10 0 -10 -20

Wimmera Mallee rainfall figures Rainfall mm Annuello................................................. 19.8 Birchip (Marbled)................................... 26.5 Birchip (Marbled Comparison) ............. 29.6 Boundary Bend...................................... 14.5 Bronzewing ............................................ 14.8 Canary Island......................................... 15.0 Charlton ................................................. 26.6 Charlton (Donald St) ............................. 26.6 Coonooer Bridge ................................... 35.3 Dimboola ............................................... 22.4

Donald ........................................................na Dunolly ................................................... 36.2 Hopetoun Airport ................................... 14.0 Inglewood ...................................................na Jeparit .................................................... 18.6 Kaniva.................................................... 22.8 Kerang.................................................... 10.6 Kerang (Meran Downs)......................... 29.5 Lake Boga .............................................. 24.2 Lindsay Point........................................... 9.0

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

December 2025 Manangatang ........................................ 12.0 Mildura .................................................... 6.6 Mincha ................................................... 20.0 Murrayville............................................... 5.2 Nhill......................................................... 17.0 Ninyeunock.................................................na Ouyen ..................................................... 13.6 Paringi.........................................................na Pira......................................................... 20.8 Quambatook South............................... 23.6

Sea Lake................................................. 27.1 Swan Hill ................................................ 22.0 Tutye....................................................... 14.2 Ultima..................................................... 26.8 Walpeup .................................................. 9.6 Werrimull................................................. 8.6 Woomelang............................................ 21.4 Wycheproof............................................ 32.2 Yaapeet .................................................. 18.4 Warracknabeal Airport........................... 17.4

14 | January 2026

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

January 2026 | 15

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

Southern Basin Water Market Update Irrigators across the Southern Murray Basin are heading into the latter part of the 2025/26 season facing a high level of uncertainty. Persistent dry conditions, concerns about water availability, and rising temporary allocation prices are prompting a cautious approach. A combination of factors, including declining storage levels and elevated irrigation demand, is contributing to uncertainty over future water allocations. This is particularly the case for NSW Murray and Murrumbidgee General Security holders, where allocations are low. Major storages such as Hume, Dartmouth, and Eildon have undergone consistent drawdowns. Currently, Southern Basin storage capacity stands at 54%, down from 70% at the same time last year. Early-season forecasts for General Security holders in the New South Wales Murray and Murrumbidgee regions have largely played out as expected. With storages under ongoing pressure, the lack of further allocation improvements comes as little surprise. At the time of writing, Goulburn/Loddon High Reliability Water Shares are at 73% allocation. This figure sits slightly above projections for a dry scenario. However, without meaningful rainfall over the Eildon catchment, it is unlikely that High Reliability Water Shares in the Goulburn/Loddon system will reach 100% allocation this season. Please note the next allocation announcements for Victoria and New South Wales are on Thursday, 15 January, after this publication has gone to print. The impact of early January dry and hot conditions is still being felt across the Southern Basin. Temporary allocation was in high demand, and with limited supply on the market, a rapid price spike was observed. The higher prices fortunately brought more sellers to the market, underpinning a slight easing of prices, and demand appears to have steadied. Adding to availability is the opportunity for the Murrumbidgee to trade to the Murray, as the Inter-Valley trade relationship is open in both directions.

The absence of dominant climate influences, such as La Niña or El Niño, has further contributed to ambiguous seasonal projections. This uncertainty is prompting many water users to rethink their risk management, including forward allocation purchasing, locking in long-term entitlement leasing, and planning for carryover next season.

Every business has a different risk appetite and water use profile. Tailored advice built on up-to-date market intelligence is becoming essential, not optional. As the 2025/26 season heads into its closing stages, now is the time to reassess water positions, refine plans for the remainder of this season, and start thinking about 2026/27.

No one can predict this season’s finish or next season’s start with certainty. What is clear is that relying on hope is no longer a viable strategy in a volatile water market.

We invite you to speak with your local Ruralco Water broker about current market conditions and the options available to your business. A considered strategy today can help protect production, manage exposure to high prices, and position your operation more strongly for the seasons ahead.

At Ruralco Water, our focus is on helping growers turn uncertainty into informed decision-making. Our local brokers live and work in the same regions as the irrigators they support, and they are tracking allocations, storage trends, trade opportunities, and price movements every day.

Water Market Alert!

Exploring Alternative Water Products As we enter a period of increased water market volatility and uncertainty, driven by persistent dry conditions, fluctuating storage levels, and unpredictable allocations, alternative water products are gaining traction among irrigators and water users in the Southern Basin. Options such as Intra-Season Forwards, Next Season Allocation Forwards, and Long-Term Entitlement Leases are becoming increasingly sought after as tools to mitigate risk and provide stability in an otherwise unpredictable environment.

Temporary Allocation Market

From $/ML

To $/ML

440 440 350 425 440

445 445 355 435 445

SA River Murray - Zone 12 VIC Murray – Zone 7 VIC Murray – Zone 6 VIC Goulburn - Zone 1A NSW Murray – Zone 11

Permanent Entitlement Market

Recent Trend

From - To $/ML

SA River Murray - Zone 12 - Class 3 VIC Murray - Zone 7 High Reliability NSW Murray - Zone 11 High Security VIC Goulburn - Zone 1A High Reliability

$7,800/ML - $8,100/ML $7,500ML - $7,600/ML $9,100ML - $9,300/ML $3,800/ML - $3,900/ML

dee La nin

ALL STORAGES 20%

WEEK

-51GL

97% G IN RL R DA RIVE

NSW Murray

0% HR

Shaannie Webb

Heather Henderson

0408 596 678

0419 937 982

0447 058 873

0419 369 944

0429 554 480

0418 365 683

Online Trading / Subscribe ruralcowater.com.au

Indicator

WEEK

Hume 34%

RA Y

73%

Goulburn

lowerin

Allan Anderson

46%

M’bidgee

VIC

urrinjuc

-28GL

VIC Murray

31% WEEK

GOULBURN RIVER

WEEK

-46GL

-67GL

Eildon 53% WEEK

-28GL

mo art ut

Jeff Milne

HS EE RIVER

NSW

95%

M’BIDG

100%

Tota Total Entitlem Entitlement Volum Volume on iss issue

Jon Armstrong

RIVER MURRAY

Phil Grahame

32%

73% WEEK

-27GL

Local Service, National Strength

12834097-MR03-26

70%

Class 3 Cl

54%

Last Year

100%

14/01/2026

54%

kes

Call us ,I \RX UH ORRNLQJ WR PDQDJH ULVN DQG VHFXUH \RXU ZDWHU QHHGV PRUH VWUDWHJLFDOO\ QRZ to discuss the wat e LV WKH LGHDO WLPH WR H[SORUH WKHVH RSWLRQV &RQWDFW \RXU ORFDO 5XUDOFR :DWHU EURNHU market r s WRGD\ and you r trading needs.

Current as at 14 January 2026

These products represent a shift from reactive spot-market trading to more proactive, forward-thinking strategies. In the current climate, where temporary allocation prices have spiked due to high demand and limited supply, relying solely on last-minute purchases can FDQ H[SRVH ZDWHU XVHUV WR VLJQLILFDQW ILQDQFLDO ULVNV %\ FRQWUDVW DOWHUQDWLYH SURGXFWV DOORZ XVHUV WR ORFN LQ ZDWHU DFFHVV DKHDG RI WLPH RIIHULQJ D EXIIHU DJDLQVW WKH YRODWLOLW\

16 | January 2026

NorthWestFarmer.com.au

WE HAVE ALL YOUR SPRAYER TYRE REPAIRS COVERED

The crew at Goodyear Curlewis Street have all your commercial tyre needs covered, from truck to tractor tyres and repairs – we do it all. Stocking the biggest range of tyres in the area at competitive prices. With our on farm service truck, we have all your on site jobs and after hours call outs covered, we will keep you on the road or in the paddock.

32 Curlewis Street, Swan Hill Ph: 5032 5922 / 0457 322 716